A National Resource to Support Excellence in Community Action

Transitions to Independence

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Last Revised: Mar 03, 2011 - Initial Posting: Aug 13, 2004
Purpose

The REACH Pikes Peak established the Transition to Independence Program to increase the capacity of low-income individuals and families to become self-sufficient.

Description

REACH Pikes Peak created the Transitions to Independence Program (TIP) as part of a holistic approach that could address the multitude of barriers to achieving self-sufficiency.

FSS Flyer                  TIP Flyer                  YES Flyer                  IDA Flyer

The framework for PPCAA's services is based on a ROMA Logic Model format adapted from the Center for Applied Management Practices.  A Continuum of Services Logic Model responds to three levels of need:

  • Need: Working poor families are at risk of hunger, homelessness, and ill health and are unable to access employment and community services
    • Family Stabilization Services (FSS flyer) are provided involving assessment, eligibility, counseling, budget counseling, food pantries and supportive services.
    • Outcomes include (a) people have safe and appropriate housing, (b) people are healthier, and (c) people have greater opportunities and access to employment and community services.
  • Need:  Working poor families often lack the necessary education, job skills, or life skills to successfully compete in the job market.
    • The Transitions to Independence Program (TIP flyer) is offered involving orientation, assessment, case plans, counseling, workshops, supportive services, and follow-up.
    • A Youth Education Savings Program (YES flyer) teaches fiscal responsibility, accountability and provides resources for educational assistance and post secondary education
    • Outcomes include (a) education and skill levels are increased and (b) income is increased to self-sufficiency levels.
  • Need:  Lower-income people lack opportunities to build assets.
    • The Individual Development Account Program (IDA flyer) provides orientation, intake & enrollment, savings accounts, financial literacy training, and asset training.
    • Outcomes include (a) people are homeowners, (b) people obtain advanced education, and (c) people start and expand small businesses.

Intake and assessment for TIP uses a Self-Sufficiency Assessment Scale to determine client status from "In Crisis" to "Thriving" in six developmental domains: Housing/Food; Income/Assets; Education/Skills; Environment; Relationships; Personal Attributes.

TIP staff includes a Program Director, Case Managers and Client Counselors. Case management includes monthly follow-up for a period of one year.

PPCAA assists clients financially to help accomplish case management plans.  An annual fundraising campaign known as The Empty Stocking Fund occurs through a collaborative community initiative.  This is conducted by the local newspaper (The Gazette) and partners include area human service agencies, individual givers, businesses and foundations.  Over $600,000 is raised with more than $100,000 provided to PPCAA.

Outcomes

Data for FY'08 through June 18th reflects:

  • 40 clients currently enrolled (goal is to sign up 10 more)
  • 166 services provided so far in 2008 at a cost of $20,663 ($124 actual cost per service vs. 2008 budget of $114) – 15 CNA Graduates so far in 2008 and 1 Bachelor of Science Degree

Prior year accomplishments are reflected in the 2007 TIP Annual Report.

Contact

John Tighe, Chief Executive Officer
719.471.7870

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